What Are Bridges?
If you have one or more missing teeth, there are many different options depending on the case and patient. Dental bridges are natural-looking dental prosthetics that anchor to adjacent teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
In dentistry, a bridge is a false tooth (called a pontic) attached to either side of a gap by abutment teeth. There are several different types of bridges.
Traditional bridges consist of a false tooth or teeth affixed to each of the abutment teeth by dental crowns. Traditional dental bridges are the most common, and they are for when you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap caused by a missing tooth.
While cantilever dental bridges are similar to traditional bridges, with only one abutment tooth cemented to the pontic, a cantilever bridge requires only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap left by the missing tooth.
Maryland dental bridges utilize two natural abutment teeth on both sides of the gap, similar to a traditional bridge. Unlike traditional bridges, which use crowns on the abutment teeth, a Maryland bridge uses a porcelain or metal framework that bonds to the back surface of the abutment teeth.
Like a traditional bridge, a Maryland bridge can be used if an adjacent natural tooth is on both sides of the gap resulting from the missing tooth or teeth.
The term “implant-supported bridge” refers to a bridge supported by dental implants rather than by crowns or frames. In general, for each missing tooth, one implant is surgically placed, and these implants serve as a support for the bridge. Constructing a bridge by suspending a pontic between two implant-supported crowns is possible if a single implant is not feasible for each missing tooth.
Choosing between a dental bridge and an implant
A dental bridge can last between five and 15 years if properly cared for, while dental implants are considered a permanent solution. The quality of dental hygiene can affect the life expectancy of all types of bridges, including dental implants.
What Is the Purpose of a Dental Bridge?
The spaces left by missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift, or even loosen, and give you a bad bite. Missing teeth can make it more difficult to eat and may affect your speech as well.
Are Bridges Right For You?
If you would like to learn more about dental bridges and see if they are the right solution for your smile, contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
